Israel’s Prophecy for Benjamin

Israel’s Prophecy for Benjamin

Genesis 49:  ²⁷ “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf;
In the morning he shall devour the prey,
And at night he shall divide the spoil.”

 

²⁸ All these are the twelve tribes of Israel, and this is what their father spoke to them. And he blessed them; he blessed each one according to his own blessing.

 

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Benjamin was the twelfth son of Jacob and the second son of Rachel, the one Jacob loved. Rachel had a difficult child labor with Benjamin and named him Ben-Oni “Son of my Trouble.” But Jacob renamed him Benjamin, “Son of my right hand.”  Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin.

 

My Observations:

• Benjamin did not grow up with a mother figure in his life.
• Israel recognized that Benjamin had valor as a warrior and disgrace.
• Benjamin was significantly younger than his brothers and may not have shared as much hatred of Joseph, but he went along with them.

 

This is the final blessing of Israel. The tribe of Benjamin would end up small. At one point, all of the tribes would turn against this tribe in a civil war. The warriors that came from the tribe of Benjamin were known for being fierce and cruel. This aligned with Israel’s prophecy of Benjamin.

 

Famous people came from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul, Israel’s first king and Saul, otherwise known as Paul, came from the tribe of Benjamin. Paul even says he was a Pharisee of Pharisees from the tribe of Benjamin.

 

Saul, the king, was a fierce warrior who pursued David to kill him. Saul of Tarshish, pursued those who believed in CHRIST to kill them. Both Sauls showed their fierce roots from Benjamin. BUT GOD has Benjamin’s name in the book of Revelation and on a gate in heaven. This shows GOD’s mercy.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Benjamin’s blessing from Israel?
• Are there parts of you that seem fierce?
• Can you praise GOD for HIS grace and for overlooking what you have done in the past?

Undeserved Favor Again

Undeserved Favor Again

Genesis 47: ⁵ Then Pharaoh spoke to Joseph, saying, “Your father and your brothers have come to you. ⁶ The land of Egypt is before you. Have your father and brothers dwell in the best of the land; let them dwell in the land of Goshen. And if you know any competent men among them, then make them chief herdsmen over my livestock.”

 

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After Joseph’s brothers told Pharaoh that they were shepherds, Pharaoh told Joseph to give them the “best of the land.” He also asked if there were others and if so, make them chief herdsmen.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph’s brothers hated him, BUT GOD showed them favor despite their actions.
• Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, BUT GOD raised Joseph to rule over Egypt.
• Joseph’s brothers lied about what they did as a cover up, BUT GOD blessed them to have the best land in Egypt during a famine that was causing people to starve.

 

There was nothing the brothers did to deserve this much favor. BUT GOD used their evil for good. This is an important lesson for us. We may talk bad about oppressors or avoid patching up a relationship, thinking we are doing the right thing.

 

GOD’s ways are higher than our ways. HE sees solutions way beyond the current situation. HE gave grace and favor to people who could care less about changing. HE did this for the ultimate purpose of saving you and me. If HE wiped out evil people, there would be no human who could open the scroll that sentenced Satan and redeemed humans. GOD sees around our shortcomings to achieve a greater purpose. That’s favor.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the favorable statement given by Pharaoh?
• Have you ever received favor and thought it was because you were temporarily being good?
• Can you praise GOD today for the undeserved favor in your life?

Desire to Liar

 Desire to Liar

Genesis 27: ¹⁸ So he went to his father and said, “My father.”

 

And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?”

 

¹⁹ Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn; I have done just as you told me; please arise, sit and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.”

 

²⁰ But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?”

 

And he said, “Because the Lord your God brought it to me.”

 

²¹ Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not.” ²² So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, and he felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” ²³ And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands; so he blessed him.

 

²⁴ Then he said, “Are you really my son Esau?”

 

He said, “I am.”

 

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Jacob followed his mother’s instructions to the letter. He went into Isaac and said he was Esau. He then said he had the wild game that he was sent out to get.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob lied about being /Esau.
• Jacob Lied about catching wild game.
• Jacob really desired to get the blessing, so he lied to get it.

 

Jacob seemed like he would do anything to get what he wanted. But little did he know, GOD would eventually change his deceptive ways. It’s quite amazing how GOD chooses sinners like you and me.

 

GOD cannot stand sin. HE sees deception, lies and manipulation as a problem. BUT GOD also knows when HE can use someone who has been lying and cheating. GOD’s grace is amazing HE would bless this liar, despite his ways. One day his ways would have to change.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about what HE allowed Jacob to do?
• Have you ever lied to yourself or others?
• Is this the day you are changed to follow GOD wholeheartedly and without fear?

Nations and People Groups 4 of 6

Nations and People Groups 4 of 6

Genesis 10: ¹³ Mizraim begot Ludim, Anamim, Lehabim, Naphtuhim, ¹⁴ Pathrusim, and Casluhim (from whom came the Philistines and Caphtorim).

 

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Returning back to the children of Ham, GOD mentions Mizraim to Noah. Mizraim is the founder of the Egyptian empire that would prove to be a challenge for a long period of time. Mizraim may have also tried to prove the curse of Noah was not valid, nor was the GOD he followed. One of his son’s, Casluhim, birthed the Philistine empire.

 

My Observations:

• Mizraim or Egypt eventually saw people as property.
• The Egyptian empire would enslave many people, which seems contrary to the curse of Canaan.
• People who seek power over one another may dominate for a season, but fall hard when the LORD says so.

 

Wow! Egyptians and Philistines! GOD allowed groups of people to be born and walk in disbelief on HIM. They were highly intelligent, strong and highly admired. They struggled with the concept of a higher power, thinking humans could become a god.

 

It is amazing that GOD allowed people to create false gods and turn their backs to HIM. No matter what GOD has done in the past or present, they would not turn to HIM. Great empires were developed with wild human sacrifices. GOD was not weak, HE waited.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD mention the origin of Egypt and the Philistines to Moses?
• Has GOD made a promise to you that has not come to fruition?
• Will you allow GOD to work HIS plan through you as part of a greater plan for humanity?

Dependable Promise

Dependable Promise

Genesis 9: ⁸ Then God spoke to Noah and to his sons with him, saying: ⁹ “And as for Me, behold, I establish My covenant with you and with your descendants after you, ¹⁰ and with every living creature that is with you: the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you, of all that go out of the ark, every beast of the earth. ¹¹ Thus I establish My covenant with you: Never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood; never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.”

 

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Turning over all control of the earth to humans required some assurance. GOD the creator, wiped out most living things. Only those who were on the ark survived. HE did this because the thoughts and actions of humans were guided by their sin nature which led to extreme violence. GOD devised a plan with one person, Noah.

 

His family was saved because he walked with the LORD. GOD, knowing the son’s hearts, gave a commandment to preserve life. No killing or eating humans. Then GOD gave assurance that HE would never wipe out humans with a flood.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD makes a promise, HE is faithful and just to keep it.
• GOD knew that humans would not choose HIM, yet HE promised to not wipe them out.
• GOD showed mercy and grace towards humans, knowing HE was the one who had to save them from themselves.

 

Assurance that GOD would never flood the earth was given to every human, animal and bug. But it was more than assurance. It was disclosure that another plan was in action. GOD was not rolling over and allowing humans to be ruled by their sin nature.

 

HE allowed humanity to live with free will to choose HIM or not. HE gave humanity another chance and set an example of what amazing grace looked like. Even when GOD is hated, looked at as a problem versus a solution or shows HIMSELF faithful by providing and is turned away from by HIS creation; GOD still keeps HIS promise.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this promise HE made to all living things?
• Have you ever doubted GOD’s love for you?
• Are you willing to let go of some of your doubt by focusing on the promises GOD made to you today?

Life Preserver

Life Preserver

Genesis 6: ¹⁷ And behold, I Myself am bringing floodwaters on the earth, to destroy from under heaven all flesh in which is the breath of life; everything that is on the earth shall die. ¹⁸ But I will establish My covenant with you; and you shall go into the ark—you, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you. ¹⁹ And of every living thing of all flesh you shall bring two of every sort into the ark, to keep them alive with you; they shall be male and female. ²⁰ Of the birds after their kind, of animals after their kind, and of every creeping thing of the earth after its kind, two of every kind will come to you to keep them alive. ²¹ And you shall take for yourself of all food that is eaten, and you shall gather it to yourself; and it shall be food for you and for them.”

 

²² Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.

 

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Noah had to design a habitat to preserve all of life. He wasn’t given a timeframe for how long this habitat would be needed. It would have to perpetually provide food and recycle waste. From insects to birds to animals, Noah had to design a place that would house two of every “sort.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave Noah the ingenuity to design and build a habitat to preserve all of life.
• GOD had in HIS plan a way to keep life going despite the declaration of total destruction.
• GOD declared salvation through small numbers.

 

There was no mistake made when GOD created a habitat that would sustain bugs, animals and humans, The Garden of Eden was perfect and the relationship between humans and wildlife was harmonious. Satan’s pride caused humans to fall. They would no longer desire to be with GOD, much like today.

 

GOOD found favor in one human, Noah. He would be given the task to preserve things that grew or that could procreate. Seeds would have to be collected. The bugs and animals would come to him to “keep them alive.” Noah had his hands full. He may have solicited help and was possibly met with ridicule. No one knew what was coming.

 

Challenge

• How do you think Noah felt when he heard the news that every living thing on earth would die?
• Do you see GOD’s plan of salvation in HIS declaration of destruction?
• Are you focusing on the task GOD has given you to preserve life eternally?

Strange Graceful Conversation

Strange Graceful Conversation

Genesis 3: ²⁰ And Adam called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all living.

²¹ Also for Adam and his wife the Lord God made tunics of skin, and clothed them.

²² Then the Lord God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. And now, lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever”— ²³ therefore the Lord God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken. ²⁴ So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.

 

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After creating a place that had everything and people who could enjoy it, Satan tempted humans to sin, possibly to avoid the sealed up sentence of his demise. He was sentenced anyway but so was the man and woman. The ground would no longer respond the same and the garden was off limits to humans. The trees that brought life and knowledge were off limits. This portal to heaven was closed off.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS held a conversation with the FATHER and the HOLY SPIRIT saying “Behold, the man has become like one of US.”
• JESUS sacrificed an animal to make clothes for the man and woman.
• JESUS drove them out of the garden and placed a cherubim, or a guardian angel, in the way of the entrance.

 

It seems harsh at first glance that humans had to leave the garden. BUT GOD could have immediately intensified the punishment with immediate death. BUT HE didn’t. Instead, HE showed grace by hiding their nakedness and providing, only in a way that would be more difficult.

 

The land would need more attention outside the garden. Humans would be different too. Knowledge of good and evil would prove to be a problem because now there was a war inside of every human ever born. This war is called free will. Choice between GOD’s way versus being GOD became the battle. Fortunately JESUS saw this and knew what HE was going to do.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about this conversation?
• Can you see the grace that HE showed to HIS creation, even thought the stakes were extremely high?
• Can you look back on your life to see where GOD has shown you incredible undeserved grace?

Looking for Amazement

 

Looking for Amazement

Revelation 13: Then I saw a beast coming up out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads; on each of its horns there was a crown, and on each of its heads there was a name that was insulting to God. ² The beast looked like a leopard, with feet like a bear's feet and a mouth like a lion's mouth. The dragon gave the beast his own power, his throne, and his vast authority. ³ One of the heads of the beast seemed to have been fatally wounded, but the wound had healed. The whole earth was amazed and followed the beast. ⁴ Everyone worshiped the dragon because he had given his authority to the beast. They worshiped the beast also, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who can fight against it?”

 

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Hearing the smooth talker, I was amazed at what he said. I observed his style and noticed he said what people wanted to hear, no matter if it were true or not. “That’s it!” I thought to myself. Maybe I can “win” people over by saying whatever it took, even if were a lie, to get what “I” wanted.

 

• I was willing to walk away from the truth to manufacture a lie.
• I was willing to side up with people who seemed to be “winning” but were losing due to their harmful methods.
• I wanted to get “my” way so badly, that I was willing to do some things that I shouldn’t have been doing.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved saw the dragon, Satan, give his power to the beast. At this time, “everyone” worshiped the dragon, because of the ability to make the beast powerful, as if to say, Make me powerful too.” The whole earth was amazed and willing to follow Satan.

 

My Observations:

• People who belong to JESUS will never bow down to Satan.
• GOD’s people, who remained faithful, following HIS commands and pacing his or her trust in JESUS as the Savior, will never bow to Satan.
• Only those who remain in their unbelief can be deceived to follow Satan and worship him.

 

Why in the world did GOD give the most important message that could send people to heaven or hell, to unreliable humans? I mean, humans are inconsistent, hypocritical and selfish, all of us! GOD even said “No one is righteous.” BUT HE made a way that HE would not wipe out HIS creation. JESUS.

 

Believing in JESUS cleanses me of all unrighteousness. HE sends the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me to guide me in the way GOD wants me to live. HE gives me purpose to make HIM special, not myself. I am amazed at the grace of JESUS. HE is my hope.

 

Challenge

• Do you think the writer had a hard time describing what HE saw?
• Have you ever wanted to be in power so badly that you were willing to leave GOD to follow human “success?”
• Will you be amazed at GOD’s grace for you and HIS power and authority today?

Show Mercy

Show Mercy

Jude 1: ²² Show mercy toward those who have doubts; ²³ save others by snatching them out of the fire; and to others show mercy mixed with fear, but hate their very clothes, stained by their sinful lusts.

 

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After passing the car that was going at a high speed, I felt satisfied. I “won” the competition that the other driver never knew he or she was competing. I eased back from my high speed but still went along at a nice clip. Miles later, I saw a car following me. Police lights went flashing behind. “You were speeding and I should write you a ticket” but I am going to let you off this time” were the shocking words of mercy.

 

• I was clearly in the wrong.
• I deserved to get a judgment against me.
• I received mercy because I was told what I did was wrong and I was let go.

 

Jude gives his final instruction to believers. He tells everyone to “Show mercy.” He also knew how difficult this would be. To state the problem and to state the grace that is being shown is hard to do when the situation is highly emotional. Jude mentions the stakes by saying the believer would be “snatching them out of the fire.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD showed mercy to me by letting me know I am a sinner saved y HIS grace.
• GOD could have held everything against me, but instead HE saved me in spite of me.
• GOD does not like the sins I do, so HE looks inside my heart and cleans it with HIS compassion.

 

Showing mercy takes courage. I mean, the first part of mercy is to let him or her know the problem, then the grace. Mercy can be extended without expectation that he or she will accept it or change in front of your eyes. GOD has a plan.

 

HE sees the problem and guides people who need mercy to places that are broken. HE then opens their eyes to the brokenness and helps him or her ask for mercy versus demanding it. Jude’s advice is to be wise and be ready to show mercy when the moment is right. I am glad GOD shows mercy to you and me.

 

Challenge

• Who does the writer recommend to show mercy to?
• Have you ever been the benefactor of mercy?
• Will you ask GOD for the right “graceful” words to carefully explain the problem and to extend mercy for the sake of growing GOD’s kingdom today?

Grace and Peace

Grace and Peace

2 Peter 1: From Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ—

To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have been given a faith as precious as ours:

² May grace and peace be yours in full measure through your knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

 

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After leaving court, I got my driver’s license back. I had exceeded the maximum number of speeding tickets that year and had to get my license reinstated. Since that pressure was over, I decided to celebrate. I threw the usual party and made the theme, “Able to Drive Again!”

 

• I made any excuse to hold a party.
• Having a group of people with loud music, laughter and drinks, temporarily reduced the pain of reality.
• Monday would arrive every week and I had to face whatever situation I was trying to escape from.

 

Peter writes another letter. This time he addressed it to a broader audience of believers which included Gentile believers. His opening statement was a small prayer for everyone to receive grace and peace in “full measure.”

 

My Observations:

• My sinful efforts bring temporary relief, BUT knowing GOD gives me peace that I don’t understand.
• Vacations, celebrations, and parties seem like a nice escape, BUT knowing JESUS  gives me grace that sustains me during difficult times.
• Getting to know about GOD and the SON of GOD is worth the work, because it shows me grace and peace that is different than the world’s temporary, pleasure filled approach.

 

Indulgence is temporary, BUT GOD is forever. I mean, avoiding the “bad” situation for a moment of pleasure can sometimes make things worse for me. Bad decision after bad decision during my pursuit of pleasure can sometimes leave me with more problems that pleasure can’t fix. BUT GOD has a different way.

 

GOD wants me to get to know who HE is so I will not fall into a trap of blaming HIM or misunderstanding who HE is. Getting to know about JESUS shows me how much I a really loved. I am glad I can receive grace and peace in spite of my bad thoughts of who GOD is. I receive HIS love by learning about HIM.

 

Challenge

• What sticks out to you in the writer’s greeting?
• Are you trying to pursue grace and peace through the world’s methods?
• Will you pursue a relationship with JESUS by getting to know HIM so you can receive grace and peace that rises above all of your situations today?

Triumphant

 

Triumphant

James 2:  ¹⁰ Whoever breaks one commandment is guilty of breaking them all. ¹¹ For the same one who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not commit murder.” Even if you do not commit adultery, you have become a lawbreaker if you commit murder. ¹² Speak and act as people who will be judged by the law that sets us free. ¹³ For God will not show mercy when he judges the person who has not been merciful; but mercy triumphs over judgment.

 

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Hearing what someone else did made me feel pretty good about myself. “I don’t drink and I don’t do drugs and I don’t kill people” were my measures of success. But on my way to work I cut people off in traffic, was short with people at work and joined in on the jokes about body parts.

 

• I tried to justify my sin by comparing what I did to other people.
• I came up with my own conclusion that I was “better” than most people, so I deserved better treatment from GOD.
• I also factored in that I had stopped doing certain sins so GOD should treat me better than those who are still stuck in the stuff “I” used to do.

 

James addressed the sin of comparison. He mentions adultery and murder as two extreme sins to compare. People may have justified adultery, comparing it to murder, thinking it wasn’t as bad as murder. He then gives the right heart each person should have, namely be merciful.

 

My Observations:

• My insecurities make me compare myself to other people so I can feel good about myself.
• Overlooking my own guilt makes me judge other people.
• GOD sets me free from sin through JESUS and wants me to be merciful versus judgmental.

 

Breaking a single Law makes me guilty of breaking the whole Law of GOD. While this seems extremely harsh, it shows me GOD’s standard which is without sin and full of pure love. HE saw that I would struggle with sin because I was born with a tendency to sin. I could never be “good” enough to meet HIS standard of being sinless, so JESUS made a way to remove my guilt.

 

HE not only save me, but wants others saved as well. HE knows the sins of “that” person and forgives him or her, just like HE forgave me. HE wants me to look at my own sins and to not use comparison to justify being judgey. I am glad JESUS makes me triumphant when I show mercy, even in its tiniest degree.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about being guilty?
• Have you ever tried to compare your sin to other people?
• Have you ever talked bad about other people?
• Will you seek mercy by asking GOD to clean your heart so you can be more and more merciful towards all people today?

Imperfect to Perfect

 

Imperfect to Perfect

Hebrews 7: ²⁶ Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him; he has been set apart from sinners and raised above the heavens. ²⁷ He is not like other high priests; he does not need to offer sacrifices every day for his own sins first and then for the sins of the people. He offered one sacrifice, once and for all, when he offered himself. ²⁸ The Law of Moses appoints men who are imperfect to be high priests; but God's promise made with the vow, which came later than the Law, appoints the Son, who has been made perfect forever.

 

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Being the boss for the first time felt cool and scary at the same time. I relied on a few mentors to provide advice. “What do I do about this situation?” or “What do I do about that situation?” were my constant questions. An external observer approached me and said “At some point, you will have to let go of your mentor.”

 

• I was dependent on something familiar.
• I was nervous about taking on the responsibility.
• I felt better being told what to do.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, mentions JESUS meeting our needs versus human high priests. JESUS, who remained faultless, sacrificed himself. He did what imperfect high priests could not do, be perfect forever.

 

My Observations:

• I try to control GOD by following the Law, BUT GOD loves when I rely on JESUS.
• I try to be holy by following the Law, BUT GOD enjoys when I place my faith in HIM.
• I try to get close to GOD by doing what the Law says, BUT GOD is faithful and saved me through JESUS.

 

After the Law was given, JESUS died for all the sins of humans. HE fulfilled the Law to the letter. I can turn from the Law and place my faith in something perfect, namely JESUS. I mean, when I break one Law, I am guilty of breaking all of them. JESUS made a way for me to be forgiven of the statutes of the Law.

 

This does not give me freedom to sin as I please. HE loves when I use one part of the fruit of the Spirit which is “self-control.” Being able to recognize I need a Savior every day makes me hand my sinful desires over to HIM so we can have a harmonious relationship. I am glad HE is helping me not depend on the Law, and to place my faith in HIS act of love.

 

Challenge

• What problem is the writer trying to address?
• Have you ever needed to use “faith” but were reliant on a person or money or something else?
• Will you place your faith in JESUS, who “meets our needs” and loves you dearly today?

Just When We Need It

Just When We Need It

Hebrews 4: ¹⁴ Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. ¹⁵ Our High Priest is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin. ¹⁶ Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.

 

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Having come out of the trial, I felt I needed a vacation from being “good.” I let down my guards and decided I could sin a little here and a little there. Soon I was back to old habits, never once praying to, nor communicating with GOD. But then troubles hit again.

 

• I wondered if GOD was punishing me for something I did.
• I also wondered if HE would forgive me “this” time.
• I also wondered if GOD would reach a limit on HIS forgiveness and just get tired of me coming to HIM with the same request.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains that JESUS is different than the human high priests. They, being human, have fallen into sin. JESUS was tempted in every way and never sinned. He explains that we can hold onto our faith firmly because JESUS provides mercy and grace.

 

My Observations

• There is no sin too great that GOD will not forgive.
• I can approach GOD with all my sins and be forgiven.
• JESUS knows what I am going through and sympathizes with me because of what HE went through.

 

GOD is the ultimate forgiver versus the ultimate punisher. I mean, sometimes I get scared of GOD, especially when I sin. I think I may not get “my” way. Consequently, I also think I can manipulate GOD into giving me “my” way by temporarily being good. HE knows that too.

 

GOD sees me different than I see myself. HE loves me and is concerned about me. HE grants me mercy when I should receive the ultimate punishment. HE pours out grace when I do not deserve it and HE seems to do it just when I need it. I thank GOD for HIS grace and mercy. It is always right on time!

 

Challenge

• How does the writer portray JESUS?
• Have you ever been in a situation where no one sympathized with you?
• Have you ever been blamed by “everyone” around you?
• Will you give your life to JESUS and learn about truly being forgiven so you can experience HIS everlasting grace and mercy today?

Special Meeting

Special Meeting

Hebrews 2: ¹¹ He purifies people from their sins, and both he and those who are made pure all have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his family. ¹² He says to God,

“I will tell my people what you have done;
    I will praise you in their meeting.”

¹³ He also says, “I will put my trust in God.” And he also says, “Here I am with the children that God has given me.”

 

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“All meetings should be cancelled” was the message received. Something big must have happened, was the first thing on my mind. There was a major announcement that the entire company had to hear. We all gathered to hear the announcement.

 

• I couldn’t wait to hear what was about to be said.
• I wondered what was going on.
• I had many thoughts, good and bad, run through my mind so I discussed them with others.

 

Paul, the assumed author, writes about a great gathering that will happen someday. This gathering of those who believe in JESUS will have an announcement. JESUS will tell everyone the great things GOD has done. This meeting is also a great presentation, praising GOD for the “children that GOD has given” JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Unimaginable great things are being done by GOD.
• JESUS will need to explain these great things to everyone.
• One day I will value GOD for what and who HE is.

 

Walking through life blindly can be difficult. I mean, it seems like there are difficult decisions that need to be made that require GOD’s intervention daily. It gets tiring. But one day GOD will reveal all that has been done.

 

Those who value GOD for salvation will one day hear what the great plan HE has had for each since before the beginning. Everything done, good or bad, will be revealed in front of everyone and GOD’s grace and mercy will also be revealed. I look forward to the great meeting someday.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer refer to family?
• Have you ever gathered with a group of people to hear some good news?
• Did you celebrate?
• Will you look forward to gathering with those who love JESUS by celebrating HIM today?

Seen and Rewarded

 

Seen and Rewarded

Philemon 1: ¹ From Paul, a prisoner for the sake of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy—

To our friend and fellow worker Philemon, ² and the church that meets in your house, and our sister Apphia, and our fellow soldier Archippus:

 

³ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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“Could you come into the conference room?” said my boss. “I have to finish some work” I replied. He said, “It can wait, come in.” When I walked in, everyone in the division was there and my family. “Great work!” they exclaimed.

 

• I was surprised that I was being recognized
• I was not doing the work to be recognized, rather it had to be done.
• I appreciated being recognized.

 

Paul and Timothy recognize the efforts of Philemon and many others. Philemon had opened up his house to have followers of JESUS come in and meet to discuss HIS marvelous works and miracles. This was a very dangerous move because of the societal consequences. Paul knew he was in for a challenge and asks GOD to grant him and them “grace and peace.”

 

My Observations

• Serving GOD can sometimes be challenging.
• Being open to give GOD my everything is something HE is pleased with.
• Despite the societal pressures, GOD wants me to serve HIM with all my heart.

 

Mentioning JESUS is LORD is no picnic. I mean, three will be opposition, mislabeling and sometimes unwarranted attacks. BUT GOD sees it all and is pleased. HE sees my sin and my pitiful efforts to serve HIM and provides “grace and peace” anyway.

 

GOD loves when people open up their homes to speak about HIS SON. HE enjoys when people come together and pray, praise and heal. HE rewards those who are willing to follow HIM without worry. I gladly serve GOD without expectation, knowing HE will reward me with treasures in heaven that cannot be eaten by moths and cannot be stolen.

 

Challenge

• How is the writer able to send praises to people while sitting in prison?
• Have you ever been praised for something you accomplished?
• Will you put human praise aside and seek GOD’s “grace and peace” today?

It Comes Out

 

It Comes Out

1 Timothy 5: ²³ Do not drink water only, but take a little wine to help your digestion, since you are sick so often.

 

²⁴ The sins of some people are plain to see, and their sins go ahead of them to judgment; but the sins of others are seen only later. ²⁵ In the same way good deeds are plainly seen, and even those that are not so plain cannot be hidden.

 

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Sneaking off from work seemed like a good idea. Others were doing it so I decided to try it. I went to my apartment and played cards until it was time to go punch out. It worked! Soon I made a habit. I even made plans during work. I wen home and cooked dinner. When I went to punch out, my supervisor asked. “Where were you and why do you smell like cooked food?”

 

• I had gotten caught and I was embarrassed.
• I disappointed my boss who believed in me.
• I took for granted something I was supposed to be doing, and my hidden plans became exposed.

 

Paul turns from mentoring Timothy to encouraging him. He first expressed concern over Timothy’s health. He then gives some encouragement to Timothy, who may have been frustrated that the people he was leading were missing the value in his servanthood. He let Timothy know that even the smallest, hidden good deed will be seen.

 

My Observations

• My hidden sin tends to make itself known at an inconvenient time.
• JESUS forgave me for all my sins, hidden and plain to see.
• It is more satisfying to live with a clear conscience and do good deeds for the LORD, than to keep hiding things in my heart that get me deeper and deeper into trouble.

 

Hidden things come out. I mean, the thing that I think I can hide and take to my grave is probably the thing that will hurt the most because GOD has to reveal it. “Well, HE forgives me, right?” Yes, but it may still have pain and at some point I got tired of causing my own pain and blaming it on everyone else or circumstances.

 

GOD sees my heart and wants me to ask HIM to live inside. HE then prompts me to do “good deeds” that serve HIS purpose of bringing people back to HIM. HE sees the tiniest hidden good deed and also shows HIS gratitude in ways that are amazing! I am so glad GOD cares and sees all good deeds.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the care from the writer?
• Have you ever done a hidden sin and think it will never come out?
• Will you confess your sins to GOD, including the sneaky, bitter, hateful things, so HE can be faithful and just to forgive you of those sins and cleanse you of all unrighteousness today?
• Will you also start doing “good deeds” that are pleasing to the LORD today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, you know my deepest hidden sins. Please forgive me. YOU also know the deepest hidden sins of this reader. Make him or her able to confess to YOU these sins so YOU will forgive and cleanse. Please also fill his or her heart with YOUR good deeds today. amen

Full Patience

Full Patience

1 Timothy 1: ¹⁴ And our Lord poured out his abundant grace on me and gave me the faith and love which are ours in union with Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. I am the worst of them, ¹⁶ but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. ¹⁷ To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God—to him be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen.

 

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Stopped at a light, I decided to turn right on red. As I proceeded to turn I felt the car stop. The driving instructor had a separate braking system to keep me from danger. When I looked up, a car, that had the green light, passed through the intersection. He patiently said “Look both ways when turning right on red.”

 

• I was about to make a huge mistake.
• I needed correction and patience at the same time.
• I had to accept that I did something wrong and patiently add this lesson to my skill.

 

Paul recognizes where his talents came from. He regretted his past life, but moved on to the life CHRIST gave him. He spoke about the LORD’s abundant grace, faith and love that is poured out even when we don’t have it for ourselves.

 

My Observations

• Admitting I was and am a sinner enables me to be cleansed by JESUS, who is faithful and just.
• Believing that I need CHRIST to forgive me and guide me daily, helps me not waste time on those who make me feel less than my calling.
• Confessing my flaws to GOD the FATHER, is a privilege I have gained by having a relationship with JESUS.

 

Praise GOD! That had to be said. I mean, HE saw me, pitiful, sinning, scheming, weak and lonely; yet HE said “I want you.” “Why me?” I ask. Then it hit me, it’s because GOD wanted me.

 

HE is so full of grace, that HE can’t seem to contain  it. HE pours it out on me and the result is faith and love because of my union with CHRIST. I am so glad HE has full patience and grace for me and love for me and you!

 

Challenge

• Can you feel how fired up the writer is?
• Have you ever felt like a failure because of the past?
• Are you walking cautiously and not expressing GOD’s faith, nor HIS love?
• Will you confess your doubt and believe that GOD has patience and called you to the most honorable task of speaking about JESUS, the eternal KING, today?

 

Praise

To the eternal KING, immortal and invisible, the only GOD --- to HIM be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen!

Adopted Family

Adopted Family

1 Timothy 1: From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by order of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope—

² To Timothy, my true son in the faith:

May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.

 

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Smelling the tasty food being prepared, my stomach growled. I kept peeking at the kitchen wondering what was cooking. “Would you like to stay for dinner?” were the words I had never heard before. “Can I?” I replied! “Sure, let’s ask your parents if it is okay.”

 

• I was excited to be able to hang out over someone else’s house.
• I did not know I was being asked into the family versus just getting a meal.
• I remember many fathers and mothers who adopted me as one of theirs.

 

Paul writes a letter to Timothy, calling him a son. Because of their relationship with JESUS, Paul brings Timothy into his family and provides words of encouragement. mentions his calling by the LORD and associates Timothy to that calling. He wished Timothy the best.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is my Savior and my hope.
• I am adopted into a vast family of believers because of GOD’s love for me.
• I can adopt people into the family and provide GOD’s grace, mercy and peace.

 

Family adoption is necessary. I mean, in this world of hurt, words of encouragement are few and far between. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE wants us to believe in HIS SON as the solution. HE guides each of us to be adopted into a family so we can adopt others into the family.

 

HE provides shelter to those who seek a home. HE adopts the lost, stands him or her up again and wipes away all tears. HE gives purpose so life can be abundant. I am truly grateful for my parents, adopted parents siblings and adopted siblings and all who are in my family, physical and spiritual.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer want?
• Have you ever been adopted into a family, even for a moment?
• Are you willing to bring someone into GOD’s family so he or she can experience GOD’s grace, mercy and peace today?

Fulfilled

 

Fulfilled

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹¹ That is why we always pray for you. We ask our God to make you worthy of the life he has called you to live. May he fulfill by his power all your desire for goodness and complete your work of faith. ¹² In this way the name of our Lord Jesus will receive glory from you, and you from him, by the grace of our God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

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Life had gotten hard during this stretch of time. My car was barely working, I had debt up to my ears and barely enough income to pay monthly bills. I watched a commercial of people winning large sums of money by simply having a magazine subscription. I tried it, no payoff. I played the lottery in months to follow. I bought one ticket. Each number miraculously was off by one digit.

 

• I was jealous of someone “winning” money.
• I was frustrated that I had no money and no way to get out of debt, or so I thought.
• I wondered why “everyone else” seemed to be doing better than me.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy provide a prayer for everyone who believes in JESUS as the Savior. They knew it is not possible for a human to be worthy of GOD’s calling, so they prayed for GOD to make them worthy. They also prayed for desires for goodness to be fulfilled by GOD and for everyone to complete their work of faith.

 

My Observations

• Life is more than money and GOD wants me to be fulfilled by desiring what HE thinks is good.
• Only GOD can declare me “worthy” of the life HE called me to.
• Tasks given to me by GOD require my work of faith.

 

Life is not easy. I mean, it seems when one challenge is over, another pops up. Why can’t things just be peaceful? But they are sometimes turbulent. GOD sees when I look at life on the surface and get worried. HE provides an answer.

 

GOD calls me to serve HIS people. Wait… Don’t I have problems? Yes, BUT GOD sees beyond my problems and knows the true reward HE is storing up for me in heaven. HE places the HOLY SPIRIT inside me to prompt me to desire goodness and to complete my work of faith. I am glad GOD cares enough for me to call me to do HIS work.

 

Challenge

• What are the writers praying about?
• Have you ever felt your life is unfulfilled?
• Will you ask GOD to guide your desires to HIS goodness so HE will give you a work of faith to do, so your life will be abundant and fulfilled today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please bless this reader with a calling that is worthy to YOU. Bless him or her to be fulfilled by desiring YOUR goodness. Clear the path to help us complete our work of faith. amen